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Audiology/Otolaryngology/Ear question
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Hi!
I recently took an indoor kayaking lesson where I was under water for brief periods of time. After the lesson I had water in my left ear. I was unable to remove the water, however after 2 days it seemed to clear up on its own. A few days after that, I noticed a sensation in my ear similar to the "muffled" feeling you get when you are yawning, except that it happens when I am not currently yawning. Sometimes it happens on its own, and I have also noticed some occurrences when I am swallowing after drinking something. It only occurs in the left ear and I have noticed it for the past week. I haven't noticed any loss of hearing, pain in my ear, ringing noises or any other discomfort. I am wondering what might be causing this, and if I should seek medical treatment or if it is something that will clear up on its own. Thanks for any assistance!!!
Hi Deanna,
There can be any number of causes. Being underwater, even for brief periods of time, may cause the Eutachian tube to dysfunction and give you the symptoms you describe. You also may have contracted a bacterial infection from the water.
If this hasn't already cleared up, you should seek medical treatment.
Hope this helps.
Harriet Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 8 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Thanks for taking the time to answer my question! It seems to have cleared up on its own, but if it happens again, I will know the correct course of action! | ||
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Answers by Expert:
Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D.
Expertise
I am a Board Certified Doctor of Audiology with 25 years of experience. I can answer questions regarding hearing loss, both general and specific, dizziness and vertigo, auditory processing disorders, hearing aids, aural rehabilitation as well as specialized audiologic testing, i.e., Auditory Brainstem Response, VideoNystagmography, Otoacoutic Emissions. I have worked with both pediatric and adult populations. Because of my extensive musical background, I am able to respond to questions regarding the special needs of musicians.
Experience
I have been an audiologist for over 25 years with a specialty in electrophysiology of the auditory and vestibular systems and pediatric evaluations. I currently work in my private consulting practice providing services to nursing homes and schools. My Doctoral research was on specialized techniques in Auditory Brainstem Responses.
Organizations
American Academy of Audiology, -
American Speech Language Hearing Association, -
Hearing Loss Association of America
Education/Credentials
Au.D. (Doctor of Audiology), Nova Southeastern University, 2000.
Board Certified Doctor of Audiology (American Board of Audiology)
Certificate in Audiology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
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